Changing our future
Applications of Gene Editing
Ending World Hunger
Gene editing can prevent crops from succumbing to harsh environmental conditions and disease. Vitamins can also be added to these plants for more nutrients.
This enables higher yields per crop, making it easier for people around the world to gain more access to food as agricultural surpluses rise.
Eradicating Disease
Gene editing can stop the spread of disease by limiting its transmission or by pinpointing and taking out the source.
Gene therapy can redirect T-Cells to attack cancer cells in the body. In addition, stem cells can be used to regenerate cells. These new cells don't contain genetic material susceptible to disease. Of course, this would require mass removal and insertion of cells in the patient.
Scientists can use gene editing to modify mosquitoes to prevent disease from spreading. They can choose to go forward with eliminating the species entirely or disrupting the disease's development in their bodies.
A future without worry of STD's and genetic disorders is possible if scientists can utilize gene editing to target harmful genes and remove them. In contrast, new genes that provide immunity towards a specific bacteria or virus may help humanity in a step towards a disease-free world.
De-Extinction
Gene editing can not only save endangered species, but bring some species back to life. This involves cloning or modifying a species using a donor.
Ecosystems on the verge of collapsing can be saved by changing animals to resist disease or improving their characteristics. This involves taking DNA from favorable organisms that supposedly would have a higher survival rate and inserting them into a weaker population.
In addiction, extinct species can be reintroduced into the wild. The possibilities of improving biodiversity are endless.
Transforming the Classroom
Gene editing can provide ways to teachers to educate their students in science.
An inferior version of CRISPR/Cas9 or other methods can provide a safe learning environment where students can gain hands-on experience. Training younger scientists by showing them how to edit bacteria or plants reduces the lack of knowledge surrounding this area.
Revolutionizing Reproduction
Gene editing provides several options in choosing the traits for our offspring.
Currently, in vitro fertilization (IVF) methods are used to generate offspring without contraception. Single patients can choose a sperm donor with traits favorable to them. These are called designer babies.
From fixing genetic disorders to giving them a desired phenotype, the possibility of moving from IVF methods to a more extensive process of reproductive selection is within reach.